Most people don’t look beyond price comparisons when choosing a service and parts dealership for their car. For example, if you get a price estimate of $800 at dealership A and another of $1200 from dealership B, most people naturally go for the cheaper one (dealership A). But is this the right way to go about it?

Money is important and getting a good deal is always a priority, but consider the following factors before making your choice:

1. Choose Where You’re Referred

Any business can spend thousands of dollars on marketing, so it’s important to know who is giving you a referral. Ask your friends and family members who have had their cars serviced recently what service center they used, received quality work from, and would recommend. Knowing that a trusted source recommends them adds credibility to the business. Pay attention to word of mouth and reviews, as they can help to narrow down your search significantly.

2. Check the Location They are Operating

Considering the convenience and accessibility of the auto body shop should also be a priority. You don’t want to have to go out of your way or take time off from work just to get your car serviced. Choose a business that is close by, so you can easily access it when you need it.

You also need to know that wealthy neighborhoods tend to have higher per-hour charge rates. Large car service businesses with numerous front-office staff may also have higher rates. So if you’re looking for a good price and quality service, try to look for auto body shops that are located in middle-income neighborhoods. Compare the rates in different areas and select one that is within your budget.

3. Ask The Right Questions:

Before you settle on a particular auto body shop, make sure you ask the right questions. Ask about their experience in the industry and whether they have specialized training to handle your car’s specific make and model. Inquire about licenses and certifications that demonstrate expertise in the field. Also find out what kind of warranty they offer, if any, so you know what you can expect from the repair job.

4. Check Online Reviews and Testimonials:

Do some research online to find out about customer experiences with auto body shops in your area. Look for reviews and testimonials on websites like Yelp and Google, as well as the shop’s own website. This will give you a good idea of how they handle customer service, how they handle repairs, and the quality of their work.

Be careful about fake or highly positive reviews, especially from pseudo accounts. These can be misleading and may not accurately reflect the shop’s performance. Look for a shop that has many positive reviews from customers with similar needs as yours. If you have the time, reach out to a customer directly and ask about their experience.

5. Consider Experience:

While price is important, it’s also a good idea to consider the experience and reputation of an auto body shop before deciding where you’ll take your car. Most people think about the number of years a shop has been in business, but you should also consider the number and type of vehicles they have worked on. Ask if they are certified to work on your make and model and whether or not they use new parts when needed.

6. Work With Certified Mechanics:

When it comes to auto body repair, the job should be done by certified mechanics and technicians. These experts have more knowledge and training than others, so you can feel confident that they’ll provide you with quality work. Additionally, certified mechanics often use specialized equipment that is more effective at detecting damage and making repairs correctly.

7. Get Quotes:

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of auto body shops, get quotes from them to compare pricing and services offered. As you can see, pricing and charges come last. Make sure that you’re comparing apples-to-apples in terms of the services being quoted so you can make the best decision for your needs. Be sure to ask if there are any hidden fees or costs that could apply down the road and read any contracts carefully before you sign.

Work With the Best Automotive Service Provider; Eastern Shore Hyundai

Following these tips will help you ensure that you choose an auto dealership that’ll do a great job. You want your service provider to be honest about pricing and services offered, and take care of your vehicle like it’s their own. Taking the time to do a little research upfront can save you time, money, and help provide peace of mind that your car will be taken care of correctly. Contact Eastern Shore Hyundai today to learn more.